Tailgate access step

ABSTRACT

A retractable vehicle step is attachable to a rear portion of a vehicle or truck. The vehicle step facilitates access to a cargo hold of the vehicle. Advantageously, the vehicle step provides clearance space relative to a tailgate of the vehicle by displacing a stepping member of the vehicle step in a generally lateral direction. The vehicle step desirably has a covered and protected biasing mechanism for transitioning between retracted and extended positions of the stepping member. Another advantage is that the vehicle step is readily attachable to the vehicle using already existing connection members, thereby generally eliminating or mitigating the need for customized retrofitting and avoiding undesirable installation cost and time.

PRIORITY CLAIM AND INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Nos. 60/863,340, filed Oct. 27, 2006 (entitled “RETRACTABLEVEHICLE STEP WITH TAILGATE CLEARANCE”) and 60/855,438, filed Oct. 31,2006 (entitled “RETRACTABLE VEHICLE STEP WITH TAILGATE CLEARANCE”).

The present application incorporates by reference the entire disclosuresof U.S. Provisional Patent Application Nos. 60/863,340, filed Oct. 27,2006 (entitled “RETRACTABLE VEHICLE STEP WITH TAILGATE CLEARANCE”) and60/855,438, filed Oct. 31, 2006 (entitled “RETRACTABLE VEHICLE STEP WITHTAILGATE CLEARANCE”).

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The invention relates generally to a stepping assist for vehicles. Inparticular, certain embodiments of the invention relate to a retractablevehicle step which is moveable between a retracted or storage positionand an extended position in which it functions as a step assist tofacilitate access to a tailgate of a vehicle such as a truck. In someembodiments, the stepping assist allows access to a cargo bed whileadvantageously providing tailgate clearance.

2. Description of the Related Art

Many vehicles such as trucks provide a fixed position stepping assist toallow access to the cargo bed of the truck.

There are also retractable stepping assists which are meant to providetruck cargo bed access.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Certain embodiments of the invention provide a retractable vehicle stepthat is attachable to a rear portion of a vehicle or truck. The vehiclestep facilitates access to a cargo hold of the vehicle. Advantageously,the vehicle step may provide clearance space relative to a tailgate ofthe vehicle by displacing a stepping member of the vehicle step in agenerally lateral direction. The vehicle step desirably has a coveredand protected biasing mechanism for transitioning between retracted andextended positions of the stepping member. Another advantage is that thevehicle step may be readily attachable to the vehicle using alreadyexisting connection members, thereby generally eliminating or mitigatingthe need for customized retrofitting and minimizing or avoidingundesirable installation cost and time.

Some embodiments provide a retractable vehicle step. The retractablevehicle step generally comprises a stepping member and a biasingmechanism. The stepping member is moveable between a retracted positionand an extended position. The biasing mechanism is operably coupled tothe stepping member. In some embodiments, the biasing member generallycomprises a moveable retaining surface and a cam surface such that inthe retracted position the cam surface contacts the retaining surfaceand urges the stepping member toward the retracted position.Advantageously, the stepping member is substantially laterally displacedby a predetermined distance when transitioning between the retractedposition and the extended position. In some embodiments, the retractablevehicle step is manually operable by the foot or other appendage of auser.

For purposes of summarizing the invention, certain aspects, advantagesand novel features of embodiments of the invention have been describedherein above. Of course, it is to be understood that not necessarily allsuch advantages may be achieved in accordance with any particularembodiment of the invention. Thus, the invention may be embodied orcarried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage orgroup of advantages as taught or suggested herein without necessarilyachieving other advantages as may be taught or suggested herein. It ispossible that even all of the specified advantages will not be present.Rather, the scope of the claims is not limited by these advantagesunless expressly so stated.

All of these embodiments are intended to be within the scope of theinvention herein disclosed. These and other embodiments of the inventionwill become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from thefollowing detailed description of the preferred embodiments havingreference to the attached figures, the invention not being limited toany particular preferred embodiment(s) disclosed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Having thus summarized the general nature of the invention and some ofits features and advantages, certain preferred embodiments andmodifications thereof will become apparent to those skilled in the artfrom the detailed description herein having reference to the figuresthat follow, of which:

FIG. 1 is a simplified perspective view of a retractable vehicle step ina retracted or storage state mounted on a vehicle illustrating featuresand advantages in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 2 is a simplified perspective view of the retractable vehicle stepof FIG. 1 in an extended state mounted on a vehicle illustratingfeatures and advantages in accordance with some embodiments of theinvention.

FIG. 3 is a simplified rear view of the retractable vehicle step of FIG.2 in a retracted state mounted on a vehicle illustrating features andadvantages in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 3A is a simplified schematic top view of a retractable vehicle stepin both retracted and extended states showing its clearance featuresrelative to a vehicle on which it is mounted illustrating features andadvantages in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 3B is a simplified schematic top view of a retractable vehicle stepin both retracted and extended states showing its clearance featuresrelative to a vehicle on which it is mounted illustrating features andadvantages in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 4 is a simplified perspective of a retractable vehicle step in aretracted or storage state illustrating features and advantages inaccordance with some embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 4A is a top view of the retractable vehicle step of FIG. 4 in aretracted or storage state illustrating features and advantages inaccordance with some embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 5 is a simplified perspective of the retractable vehicle step ofFIG. 4 in an extended state illustrating features and advantages inaccordance with some embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 5A is a top view of the retractable vehicle step of FIG. 5 in anextended state illustrating features and advantages in accordance withsome embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 6 is a simplified exploded perspective of the retractable vehiclestep of FIG. 4 illustrating features and advantages in accordance withsome embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 7 is a partial sectional view of the retractable vehicle step in aretracted or storage state illustrating features and advantages inaccordance with some embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 8 is a partial sectional view of the retractable vehicle step in atransition state illustrating features and advantages in accordance withsome embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 9 is a partial sectional view of the retractable vehicle step in anextended state illustrating features and advantages in accordance withsome embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 10 is a simplified schematic view of a powered retractable vehiclestep system illustrating features and advantages in accordance with someother embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 11 is a side view of another embodiment of a retractable vehiclestep in a retracted position.

FIG. 11A is a top view of the retractable vehicle step of FIG. 11.

FIG. 12 is a side view of the retractable vehicle step of FIG. 11 in anextended position.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The preferred embodiments of the invention described herein relategenerally to a stepping assist for vehicles and, in particular, to aretractable vehicle step which is desirably moveable between a retractedor storage position and an extended position in which it functions as astep assist to facilitate access to a cargo bed of a vehicle such as atruck while advantageously providing tailgate clearance.

While the description sets forth various embodiment specific details, itwill be appreciated that the description is illustrative only and shouldnot be construed in any way as limiting the invention. Furthermore,various applications of the invention, and modifications thereto, whichmay occur to those who are skilled in the art, are also encompassed bythe general concepts described herein.

FIGS. 1-3 show different views and positions of certain embodiments of aretractable vehicle step or tailgate step assembly 20 mounted on orattached to a vehicle or truck 10. As discussed further herein, oneadvantage of certain embodiments of the retractable vehicle step 20 isthat it desirably provides tailgate clearance.

The vehicle 10 comprises a generally rear portion or end 11 at whichlocation the retractable vehicle step 20 is positioned. For convenienceand reference, the schematic drawing of FIG. 3A shows a top view of thevehicle 10 as having a lateral axis 12, a longitudinal or long axis 13and a generally vertical axis 14. These axes can be considered to berespective X-, Y- and Z-axes of a three dimensional Cartesian coordinatesystem.

The vehicle rear portion 11 includes a tailgate 15 and a bumper 16. Asdiscussed in more detail later herein, the retractable vehicle step 20is attached to a rear underbody, chassis or frame 18 of the vehicle 10using, in certain embodiments, already existing connection members(e.g., trailer hitch bolts 19 a, 19 b or the like) on the vehicle 10.The retractable vehicle step 20 comprises, among other components asdiscussed in further detail below, a stepping member 22.

FIG. 1 shows the retractable vehicle step 20 in a retracted or storageposition or state generally denoted by “R.” In the retracted position,the stepping member 22 is generally positioned below and within theprojection of the horizontal perimeter of the bumper 16.

FIG. 2 shows the retractable vehicle step 20 in an extended oroperational position or state generally denoted by “E.” In transitioningfrom the retracted position to the extended position, the steppingmember 22 exits the rear portion 11 of the vehicle 10 from below thebumper 16 and advantageously provides a stepping assist, with tailgateand/or bumper clearance, for a user to access the cargo bed of thevehicle 10. During this motion of the stepping member 22, in certainembodiments, it is displaced laterally, longitudinally and vertically.

FIG. 3 shows the retractable vehicle step 20 in a retracted position R.In some embodiments, in the retraced position R, the vehicle step 20 isgenerally positioned below the tailgate 15 of the vehicle 10.

FIG. 3A shows the lateral and longitudinal displacements of the steppingmember 22 when transitioning between the retracted and extendedpositions as d_(lateral) and d_(longitudinal). Stated differently, thestepping member 22 extends in an angular manner from the retractedposition to the extended position. In other words, the desirable andpredetermined lateral displacement advantageously creates an increasedeffective step width which provides clearance from the tailgate 15(and/or bumper 16) even when the tailgate 15 is in the open position (asshown schematically in FIG. 3) and allows convenient use. FIG. 3B alsoshows a stepping member 22 transitioning between the retracted andextended positions. In this illustrated embodiment, in the retractedposition the outer edge of the stepping member 22 is positioned closerto the side of the vehicle 10. In this embodiment, the lateral movementd_(lateral) of the stepping member 22 as it transitions between theretracted and extended positions is small than the lateral movementd_(lateral) of the stepping member 22 shown in FIG. 3A that ispositioned further towards the midline of the vehicle 10 when in theretracted position.

In some embodiments, the lateral displacement (d_(lateral)) is about 6.4cm (2.5 inches). In another embodiment, the lateral displacement(d_(lateral)) is in the range from about 5.1 cm (2 inches) to about 7.6cm (3 inches), including all values and sub-ranges therebetween. In yetanother embodiment, the lateral displacement (d_(lateral)) is in therange from about 2.5 cm (1 inch) to about 12.7 cm (5 inches), includingall values and sub-ranges therebetween. In another embodiment, thelateral displacement d_(lateral) may be at least 2 inches, at least 2.5inches, at least 3 inches, at least 3.5 inches, or at least 4 inches. Inmodified embodiments, the lateral displacement may efficaciously be moreor less, as needed or desired.

As shown in FIG. 4, and discussed further below, in certain embodimentsthe retractable vehicle step 20 includes an upper end 41, a lower end43, a front end 45, and a back end 47. The upper end 41 of theretractable vehicle step 20 may be configured to readily be attachableto the vehicle 10 using industry standard trailer hitch bolts 19 a, 19 bwhich are provided on virtually all trucks and the like bymanufacturers. Advantageously, this permits the retractable vehicle step20 of certain embodiments to be mountable to a vehicle using alreadyexisting connection members without the undesirable need for extracomponents or custom installation. However, in modified embodiments, theretractable vehicle step 20 may be constructed to permit custominstallation, as needed or desired to various parts of the vehicle 10,for example the frame 18 or bumper 16. For example, a plurality ofdesigns may be provided with each suitable for a particular vehicletype.

The retractable vehicle step 20, in certain embodiments, generallycomprises a upper mount 24, a biasing member or spring 26, a moveableplunger or piston 28, a medial inner or first arm 30, a medial outer orsecond arm 32, a lower mount 34, and the stepping member 22 at a lower,front-most position. A plurality of clevis pins, pivot pins, screws orthe like, as described further below, connect the various components ofthe retractable vehicle step to form an assembly.

In certain embodiments, the upper mount 24 is angular or generallyL-shaped with a substantially hollow interior or channel which desirablyprovides for a light weight device while maintaining structuralintegrity. The upper mount 24 is desirably rigidly mountable to thevehicle 10 and comprises a back portion or end 36 which includes a pairof spaced through holes or passages 38 a, 38 b. In certain embodiments,the through holes or passages 38 a, 38 b are desirably configured anddimensioned to receive connection members or elements, such as thealready existing respective vehicular trailer hitch bolts 19 a, 19 b(see FIG. 3A), to facilitate connection or attachment to the vehicle 10without the undesirable need for extra components or custominstallation. The through holes 38 a, 38 b can include two portions withdifferent diameters to accommodate the bolts heads and their shanks, asneeded or desired.

Referring to FIG. 6, the upper mount 24 further comprises a frontportion or end 40 which includes a socket or opening 42 that receives atleast a portion of the spring 26 and plunger 28. The front portion 40comprises a first pair of front aligned mount holes 44 a, 44 b which arealso generally aligned with and below the socket 42. The holes 44 a, 44b receive a clevis pin, pivot pin, or axle 46 or the like to pivotallycouple or connect the upper mount 24 to the medial outer arm 32.

The front portion 40 further comprises a second pair of front alignedmount holes 48 a, 48 b offset further toward the front of upper mount 24from the first pair of aligned holes 44 a, 44 b. The holes 48 a, 48 breceive a clevis pin, axle or pivot pin 50 or the like to pivotallycouple or connect the upper mount 24 to the medial inner arm 30.

The upper mount 24 desirably comprises a structurally strong and/orlight weight material. In certain embodiments, the upper mount 24comprises a fiber reinforced composite material such as a carbon fiberreinforced plastic or thermoplastic with, for example, a polymer matrixor resin. In modified embodiments, the upper mount 24 can comprise othersuitable composites, plastics, thermoplastics, metals, alloys, ceramics,among others, with efficacy, as needed or desired.

In certain embodiments, as shown for example in FIG. 5 and in greaterdetail in FIG. 6, the biasing member 26, which is part of an internalbiasing mechanism or system 119 to provide for controlled energy storageand release, comprises an internal spring. The spring 26, in certainembodiments, is a compression spring with an upper or top portion or end52 which is received within the socket 42 and a lower or bottom portionor end 54 which is received within the plunger 28. Advantageously, thecompression spring 26 provides a compact component which is durable anddesirably has a high fatigue life. In modified embodiments, the biasingspring 26 can comprise other resilient energy storage and release meanssuch as an arched or leaf spring or a V-shaped or angled spring withefficacy, as needed or desired.

Advantageously, in certain embodiments, the internal biasing spring 26is covered and/or protected (i.e., not exposed to the ambientenvironment) by the socket 42 and the plunger 28. This desirablyprevents or mitigates breakage, failure, malfunction and/or fouling ofthe internal biasing spring 26, especially when the vehicle 10 isoperated in rough terrains such as during off road operation, andprovides a durable and long-lasting vehicle step 20.

The biasing spring 26 desirably comprises a structurally strong and/orlight weight material. In certain embodiments, the spring 26 comprises ametal or alloy such as stainless steel or aluminum. In modifiedembodiments, the spring 26 can comprise other suitable metals, alloys,composites, plastics, thermoplastics, ceramics, among others, withefficacy, as needed or desired.

Continuing to refer to FIG. 6, in certain embodiments, the plunger orpiston 28 is moveable in a direction generally aligned with or parallelto the vertical axis 14 to provide an internal biasing mechanism that,along with the spring 26, controls the retraction and extension of thevehicle step 20. The upper portion 52 of the spring 26 extends into thesocket 42. An opening or cavity 58 of the plunger receives the spring 26with the lower spring end 54 in contact with a surface 60 of the plungercavity 58. The spring 26 extends out of the open upper end 56 of theplunger 28.

The plunger or piston 28 comprises a lower or bottom surface 62 whichforms a retaining or bearing surface that, as described in furtherdetail below, desirably engages a specially contoured cam portion orsurface 82 of the medial outer arm 32. Advantageously, in certainembodiments, the combination of the plunger retaining surface 62, thespring 26 and the contoured cam portion or surface 82 of the medialouter arm 32 provides an internal and protected biasing mechanism orsystem that urges the vehicle step 20 towards the retracted and extendedpositions while facilitating transition between the retracted andextended positions. Moreover, as noted above and discussed furtherbelow, these embodiments of the internal biasing mechanism prevent ormitigate breakage, fracture, malfunction, and/or fouling, especially inoff road terrains and the like.

The plunger 28 desirably comprises a structurally strong and/or lightweight material. In certain embodiments, the plunger 28 comprises ametal or alloy such as stainless steel or aluminum. In modifiedembodiments, the plunger 28 can comprise other suitable metals, alloys,composites, plastics, thermoplastics, ceramics, among others, withefficacy, as needed or desired.

The medial inner first arm 30 is pivotally coupled or connected to andpositioned between the upper mount 24 and the lower mount 34. The medialinner arm 30 comprises an upper or top through hole or passage 64aligned with the second pair of upper aligned mount holes 48 a, 48 bwhich receive the clevis pin, axle, or pivot pin 50 or the like. Themedial inner arm 30 further comprises a lower or bottom through hole orpassage 66 aligned with a second pair of lower aligned mount holes 84 a,84 b which receive a clevis pin, axle or pivot pin 68 or the like topivotally couple or connect the medial inner arm 30 and the lower mount34.

In certain embodiments, the medial inner first arm 30 comprises a slotor through hole 70. This is advantageously configured to reduce deviceweight while maintaining structural integrity and overall strength.

The medial inner first arm 30, in certain embodiments, further comprisesa mechanical stop, protrusion, lip or extension 72 proximate the passage66. The mechanical stop 72 advantageously controls the maximum extension(generally position “E”) by contacting or abutting the medial outer arm32. In certain embodiments, the final retraction (generally position“R”) is controlled when the inner surfaces of both medial arms 30, 32contact or abut at the step retracted position to stop furtherretraction.

The medial inner arm 30 desirably comprises a structurally strong and/orlight weight material. In certain embodiments, the medial inner arm 30comprises a fiber reinforced composite material such as a carbon fiberreinforced plastic or thermoplastic with, for example, a polymer matrixor resin. In modified embodiments, the medial arm 30 can comprise othersuitable composites, plastics, thermoplastics, metals, alloys, ceramics,among others, with efficacy, as needed or desired.

The medial outer second arm 32 is pivotally coupled or connected to andpositioned between the upper mount 24 and the lower mount 34. The medialouter arm 32 comprises an upper or top through hole or passage 74aligned with the first pair of upper aligned mount holes 44 a, 44 bwhich receive the clevis pin, pivot pin or axle 46 or the like. Themedial outer arm 32 further comprises a lower or bottom through hole orpassage 76 aligned with a first pair of lower aligned mount holes 86 a,86 b which receive a clevis pin, axle or pivot pin 78 or the like topivotally couple or connect the medial outer arm 32 and the lower mount34.

In certain embodiments, the medial outer second arm 32 comprises a slotor through hole 80. This is advantageously configured to reduce deviceweight while maintaining structural integrity and overall strength.

The medial outer arm 32, in certain embodiments, comprises a speciallycontoured cam portion or surface 82 adjacent the passage 74. Asdiscussed in further detail below in connection with FIGS. 6-9, the camportion or surface 82 desirably abuts the plunger retaining surface 62and desirably provides a biasing force to the stepping member 22 in theretracted and extended positions and facilitates transition between theretracted and extended positions

The medial outer arm 32 desirably comprises a structurally strong and/orlight weight material. In certain embodiments, the medial outer arm 32comprises a fiber reinforced composite material such as a carbon fiberreinforced plastic or thermoplastic with, for example, a polymer matrixor resin. In modified embodiments, the medial arm 32 can comprise othersuitable composites, plastics, thermoplastics, metals, alloys, ceramics,among others, with efficacy, as needed or desired.

In certain embodiments, the lower mount 34 is angular or generallyL-shaped. The lower mount 34 generally comprises a front portion or end35 and a back portion or end 37 and is positioned between the medialarms 30, 32 and the stepping member 22. The front portion 35 of thelower mount 34 is pivotally coupled or connected to the medial arms 30,32 and the back portion 37 of the lower mount 34 is substantiallyrigidly coupled or connected to the stepping member 22.

The lower mount 34 comprises a second pair of top or upper spaced andaligned holes 84 a, 84 b which are aligned with the lower passage 66 ofthe inner arm 30 and receive the clevis or pivot pin 68 to pivotallycouple or connect the lower mount 34 and the inner arm 30. The lowermount 34 further comprises a first pair of top or upper spaced andaligned holes 86 a, 86 b which are displaced toward the front relativeto the holes 84 a, 84 b. The holes 86 a, 86 b are aligned with the lowerpassage 76 of the outer arm 32 and receive the clevis or pivot pin 78 topivotally couple or connect the lower mount 34 and the outer arm 32.Clearance space 88 is desirably provided to receive lower portions ofthe inner and outer arms 30, 32.

In certain embodiments, the lower mount 34 comprises one or more slotsor through holes 90 (see, e.g., FIG. 4). These are advantageouslyconfigured to reduce device weight while maintaining structuralintegrity and overall strength.

The lower mount 34, in certain embodiments, proximate its distal endcomprises a slot 92 generally aligned with a pair of passages or throughholes 94 a, 94 b. As discussed below, the slot 92 is configured tofacilitate connection to the stepping member 22. Screws 96 a, 96 b orthe like extend through respective holes 94 a, 94 b to desirably rigidlyconnect the distal mount 34 and the stepping member 22.

As shown for example in FIG. 6, in some embodiments, the front end 35 ofthe lower mount 34 further includes an angled portion 39. In someembodiments, the lateral displacement d_(lateral) of the stepping member22 as it moves from the retracted position R to the extended position Emay be accomplished by attaching the vehicle step 20 to the vehicle 10at an angle to the longitudinal axis 13 of the vehicle 10. The angle ofattachment may be changed to conveniently increase or decrease theamount of lateral displacement d_(lateral). Angled portion 39 of thelower mount 34 may be provided such that the outermost edge of steppingmember 22 extends substantially parallel to the bumper 16 of the vehicle10 in the extended position E. In the illustrated embodiment, thestepping member extends to the left of the tailgate 15 (see, e.g., FIG.3) in the extend position E. In some embodiments, the vehicle step 20may be configured such that it extends to the right of the tailgate 15.The angled portion 39 may be appropriately configured to position theouter edge of the stepping member 22 in a substantially parallelarrangement to the bumper 16. Alternatively, the angled portion 39 maybe configured such that the outer edge of the stepping member 22 extendssubstantially perpendicular to the bumper 16 to, for example, facilitateentrance into or exit from the cargo bed via the side of the tailgate 15when it is open. In some embodiments, the vehicle step 20 is arranged onthe vehicle 10 such that the outer edge of the stepping member 22 isangled with respect to the lateral axis 12 of the vehicle 10 to the samedegree in both the retracted and extended position. In some embodiments,this angle is between approximately 0 and 10, 0 and 20, or 0 and 45degrees from the lateral axis 12.

The lower mount 34 desirably comprises a structurally strong and/orlight weight material. In certain embodiments, the lower mount 34comprises a fiber reinforced composite material such as a carbon fiberreinforced plastic or thermoplastic with, for example, a polymer matrixor resin. In modified embodiments, the lower mount 34 can comprise othersuitable composites, plastics, thermoplastics, metals, alloys, ceramics,among others, with efficacy, as needed or desired.

The stepping member or T-nut step extrusion 22 desirably comprises astepping deck 98. In certain embodiments, the stepping deck 98 comprisesa ridged surface with ridges and valleys to provide stepping traction.In modified embodiments, the stepping deck 98 can efficaciously compriseother ridged or textured surfaces such corrugated, grooved, ribbed,dimpled, and the like, among others, as needed or desired. Varioussurface coatings, finishes or the like may be used with efficacy toprovide enhanced traction, as needed or desired.

In certain embodiments, the stepping member 22 is substantially hollowto desirably provide a light weight component while maintainingstructural integrity. In some embodiments, the stepping member 22 has agenerally V-shaped configuration and comprises one or more support ribs102 or the like.

As shown, for example, in FIG. 6, in certain embodiments one or moresides of the stepping member 22 are covered with a side cap 104 or thelike for user protection. The side cap 104 can comprise any one ofsuitable materials such as, but not limited, to a generally rigidplastic or the like.

The stepping member 22 is configured to connect to the lower mount 34.In certain embodiments, the stepping member 22 comprises a slot 106adjacent the lower mount 34 which is configured to receive a T-nut 108or the like. The screws 96 a, 96 b engage the T-nut 108 to substantiallyrigidly connect or couple the stepping member 22 and the lower mount 34.

The stepping member 22 desirably comprises a structurally strong and/orlight weight material. In certain embodiments, stepping member 22comprises a metal or alloy such as aluminum or steel. In modifiedembodiments, the stepping member 22 can comprise other suitable metals,alloys, composites, plastics, thermoplastics, ceramics, among others,with efficacy, as needed or desired.

In some embodiments, the stepping member 22 (and/or the stepping deck98) has a width (as measured generally along the direction of thelateral axis 12) of about 30.5 cm (12 inches) and a length (as measuredgenerally along the direction of the longitudinal axis 13) of about 15.2cm (6 inches). In modified embodiments, the stepping member 22 (and/orthe stepping deck 98) may be dimensioned in other manners with efficacy,as needed or desired. For example, the stepping member 22 may have awidth of at least 4 inches, at least 6 inches, at least 8 inches, or atleast 10 inches. Similarly, the stepping member 22 may have a depth (asmeasured generally along the direction of the vertical axis 14) of atleast 2 inches, at least 3 inches, at least 4 inches, at least 5 inches,or at least 6 inches.

The pins 46, 50, 68, 78, screws 96 a, 96 b and the T-nut 108 desirablycomprise a structurally strong and/or light weight materials. In certainembodiments, a metal or alloy such as aluminum or steel is utilized. Inmodified embodiments, other suitable metals, alloys, composites,plastics, thermoplastics, ceramics, among others, can be utilized withefficacy, as needed or desired.

The retractable vehicle step, in accordance with embodiments of theinvention, and its various components can be fabricated or created usinga wide variety of manufacturing methods, techniques and procedures.These include, but are not limited to, casting, molding, machining,laser processing, milling, stamping, laminating, bonding, welding,adhesively fixing, and the like, among others.

FIGS. 7-9 illustrate certain embodiments of the operation of a biasingor urging mechanism 119 generally including the compression spring 26,the plunger 28 and the contoured cam portion 82 of the outer arm 32.FIG. 7 depicts the step retracted position or state “R,” FIG. 8 depictsa step transition position or state “T,” and FIG. 9 depicts the stepextended position or state “E.” The step transition position or state“T” is a position as the step member 22 transitions between theretracted and extended positions.

The outer arm contoured cam portion 82 comprises a first cam surface orportion 121, a second cam surface or portion 123, and an intermediatecam surface or portion 125. An axis of rotation or rotation or pivotaxis 127 is generally defined by the pin or axle 46.

Referring in particular to FIG. 7, in the step retracted position, themoveable plunger retaining surface 62 abuts or contacts the moveablefirst cam surface 121 and these two surfaces are in substantially flushengagement. In the step retracted position, the plunger 28 has agenerally maximum extension out of the socket 42 and the spring 26 has agenerally maximum tension force to provide a biasing or urging forcetowards the rotation axis 127. In other words, the retaining surface 62is biased towards the rotation axis 127 to maintain the vehicle step 20(and/or the stepping member 22 and/or the stepping deck 98) in theretracted position, but desirably without locking out the step in theretracted position.

Referring in particular to FIG. 8, in the step transition position orstage, the moveable plunger retaining surface 62 abuts or contacts themoveable intermediate surface 125 and these two surfaces are insubstantially flush engagement. In the step transition position, theplunger 28 has a generally minimum extension out of the socket 42 andthe spring 26 has a generally minimum tension (or maximum compression)force. In other words, though the retaining surface 62 is biased in thedirection of the rotation axis 127, the spring compression forcefacilitates in the transition between the retracted and extendedpositions.

Referring in particular to FIG. 9, in the step extended position, themoveable plunger retaining surface 62 abuts or contacts the moveablesecond cam surface 123 and these two surfaces are not in substantiallyflush engagement. In the step extended position, the plunger 28 has agenerally intermediate extension out of the socket 42 and the spring 26has a generally intermediate tension force to provide a biasing orurging force towards the rotation axis 127. In other words, theretaining surface 62 is biased towards the rotation axis 127 to maintainthe vehicle step 20 (and/or the stepping member 22 and/or the steppingdeck 98) in the extended position, but desirably without locking out thestep in the extended position.

Stated differently, the tensioned spring 26 provides an urging orbiasing force in the retracted and extended positions to maintain thevehicle step 20 (and/or the stepping member 22 and/or the stepping deck98) in the respective retracted and extended positions, while in thetransition position the compressed spring 26 facilitates in thetransition between the retracted and extended positions.

As noted above, in certain embodiments, the final retraction (“R”) iscontrolled when the inner surfaces of both medial arms 30, 32 contact orabut at the step retracted position to stop further retraction. Also asnoted above, the medial inner arm stop 66 advantageously, in certainembodiments, controls the maximum extension (“E”) by contacting orabutting the medial outer arm 32.

The methods which are described and illustrated herein are not limitedto the sequence of acts described, nor are they necessarily limited tothe practice of all of the acts set forth. Other sequences of acts, orless than all of the acts, or simultaneous occurrence of the acts, maybe utilized in practicing embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 10 schematically shows a powered retractable vehicle step system100 in accordance with some embodiments. The system 100 comprises aretractable vehicle step 20′ which is substantially the same asembodiments of the vehicle step 20 except that it has a biasing memberthat comprises an electronically operable gas spring 26′.

In certain embodiments, when the vehicle 10 is turned on by its ignition131, the ignition 131 actuates a solenoid actuator, motor or device 133to retract the vehicle step 20′ by operation of the gas spring 26′. Thisis convenient, for example, if the user forgets to retract the vehiclestep 20′ after use, the ignition 131 automatically retracts the vehiclestep 20′, thereby desirably protecting it from potential damage.

With reference to FIGS. 11 and 12 another embodiment of a retractablevehicle step is illustrated. The retractable vehicle step 300 isconfigured to be mounted to a vehicle (not shown). The retractablevehicle step 300 is further configured to have a first position and asecond position. The first position comprises the vehicle step 300 in aretracted position and the second position comprises the vehicle step300 to be in an extended position. In the retracted position, theretractable vehicle step 300 is preferably located in a substantiallyin-board position relative to the rear of a vehicle and, in the extendedposition, the retractable vehicle step 300 is in a substantiallyoutboard position relative to the rear of a vehicle.

In some embodiments, the retractable vehicle step 300 preferablyincludes an upper mount 304, a stepping member 302 and connecting arms306. Furthermore, the retractable vehicle step 300 preferably includes abiasing mechanism 319 including a biasing member 307, which in someembodiments may be substantially similar to the biasing member 26 of theembodiment of the retractable vehicle step 20 shown in FIG. 4.

The upper mount 304 may include one or more additional mounting portions(not shown) to facilitate securing the vehicle step 300 to a vehicle. Inthe particular embodiment of the retractable vehicle step 300 shown inFIGS. 11 and 12, the upper mount 304 is preferably a U-shaped mountwhich comprises pivotal connections P1′ and P2′. The pivotal connectionsP1′ and P2′ are preferably configured to pivotally connect the arms 306to the upper mount 304. The upper mount 304 in some embodiments mayfurther include certain electronic or mechanic actuation componentswhich may be configured to actuate the retraction or extension of theretractable vehicle step 300. Such components may be substantiallysimilar to those described above with reference to previous embodimentsof a retractable vehicle step.

With continued reference to FIGS. 11 and 12, the retractable vehiclestep 300 further includes arms 306. The arms 306 further include a firstarm 314 and a second arm 316. The arm 314 is preferably secured bypivotal connection P1′ to the upper mount 304 and is secured to a stepbracket 318 at pivotal mount P3′. The arm 316 is preferably secured tothe upper mount 304 at pivotal mount P2′ and is secured to the stepbracket 318 at pivotal connection P4′. The lengths and mountingpositions of the connecting arms 306 are preferably sized and shaped soas to move the stepping member 302 upwards and outboard when theretractable vehicle step 300 is moved from a retracted position to anextended position.

In some embodiments, it is advantageous to configure the vehicle step300 such that in the retracted position, the stepping surface 322 of thestepping member 302 is at an angle to the horizontal. As shown in FIG.11A, the stepping member 302 need not be symmetrical. In someembodiments, the outer edge corner of the stepping member 302 may berounded or otherwise shaped to minimize the amount of stepping member302 that extends beyond the bumper if the vehicle step 300 is mounted inclose proximity to the outer edge of the bumper of the vehicle. In someembodiments, the outer corner of the stepping member 302 is shaped tocorrespond to the rounded features of the bumper to present anaesthetically pleasing appearance when mounted and in the retractedposition.

With continued reference to FIGS. 11 and 12, the step bracket 318 ispreferably connected to the arms 306 at pivotal mount P4′ and pivotalmount P3′. The step bracket 318 is further configured to receive astepping member 302. The stepping member 302 and the step bracket 318 insome embodiments may be secured to one another by fasteners so as tocreate a connection that may support the weight of a person stepping onthe retractable vehicle step 300. In addition, it may be operated by thefoot or other appendage of a user as described in greater detail below.

Though not shown, when mounted on the rear of a vehicle, it may beadvantageous in some embodiments to mount the vehicle step 300 such thatthe stepping member 302 is displaced laterally a distance d_(lateral) toprovide clearance for, for example, an open tailgate. In someembodiments, this may be accomplished as described above with respect tovehicle step 20. FIG. 11A shows the vehicle step 300 from a top view,illustrating an angle formed between the arms 306 and the steppingmember 302 according to some embodiments. As the stepping member 302moves from the retracted to the extended positions, the angle betweenthe arms 306 and the stepping member 302 preferable remains constant. Insome embodiments, the stepping member 302 is positioned on the vehiclesuch that the outer edge of the stepping member 302 is substantiallyparallel to the bumper of the vehicle in both the retracted and extendedpositions. As described above with respect to the other embodiments, thestepping member 302 may alternatively be at an angle to the bumper ofthe vehicle.

In some embodiments, the retractable vehicle step is advantageouslyconfigured to permit manually operated retraction and extension. Manualoperation may minimize the expense of manufacture and/or installation.In some embodiments, the retractable step is particularly configured tobe moved between its retracted and extended positions by foot operationof a user. Advantageously, the vehicle step includes a mechanism tofacilitate this operation. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIGS.11 and 12, the vehicle step 300 includes biasing member 307, for examplea spring. In the retracted position, shown in FIG. 11, biasing member307 biases the stepping member 302 in the retracted position. Thebiasing member 307 compresses as the stepping member 302 is pulledoutwards toward the extended position, thereby providing resistance tothe movement outwards. As the stepping member 302 continues to moveoutwards, the biasing member 307 passes its inflection point and beginsto expand rather than compress. The expansion of the biasing member 307assists the continued extension of the stepping member 302. In theextended position, the vehicle step 300 may be self-energized or lockedto prevent accidental retraction when weight is applied to the extendedstep, e.g., when a person steps on the stepping member 302 the vehiclestep does not load in such a way to bias the vehicle step 300 in aretracted position. Described in another way, by stepping on thestepping member 302 the vehicle step will be substantially locked by thearms 306 so as to bias the vehicle step 300 to an open position.Self-energized features may be provided on any of the vehicle stepsdescribed herein.

To return a self-energized step to the retracted position, the steppingmember 302 is partially lifted when in the extended position and pushedtoward the vehicle and into the retracted position. The biasing member307 again resists this movement inwards, for example, by compressing asthe stepping member 302 moves inwards. If the vehicle step 300 is notself-energized, step may be moved toward the retracted position simplyby pushing the step toward the retracted position. The resistance of thebiasing member 307 to this movement helps resist unintended movement ofthe step 300 toward the retracted position when in use.

When the biasing member 307 passes its inflection point, it assists inthe movement inwards and biases the stepping member 302 into theretracted position. In some embodiments, the biasing forces of thebiasing member 307 are advantageously configured to allow the vehiclestep 300 to be retracted and extended by the foot of a user, rather thana hand operated handle or lever or an automated system. In someembodiments, the vehicle step 300 is moved to the extended position by auser who hooks her foot onto the stepping member 902 and pulls itoutwards toward the extended position. In some embodiments, anengagement portion may be provided on the step to facilitate the hookingof the foot. For example, a cavity on the underside of the step may beprovided.

In some embodiments, biasing member or spring 307 engages a lowerportion of upper mount 304 and is held in place at least at the endengaging the upper mount 304. For example, the spring 307 may rest in acavity formed in upper mount 304 such that an upper portion of spring307 is enclosed within the cavity and a lower portion of the spring 307is outside of the cavity. The upper portion of the spring 307 issubstantially prevented from moving along the X and Y directions as thestepping member 302 is moved from the retracted to the extendedpositions. The lower portion of the spring 307 outside of the cavity isnot directly restrained by the cavity and is thereby allowed to movealong the X and Y directions as the stepping member 302 moves from theretracted position to the extended portion. The lower portion of thesprint 302 may engage a spring mount 311 to facilitate attachment to thearms 306 and to permit movement of the lower portion of the spring 307with respect to the upper portion of the spring 307 and the arms 306. Insome embodiments, the cavity encloses the entire spring 307 with anupper-most portion configured to restrain an upper portion of the spring307 from moving while a lower portion of the cavity allows movement of alower portion of the spring 307. In some embodiments, some or all of thespring 307 may be engaged with a cylinder extending downward from alower portion of the upper mount 304. The cylinder may function in asimilar manner as the cavity described above, preventing a portion ofthe spring 307 from moving in the X and Y directions while allowinganother portion to move in those directions as the stepping member 302is moved from the retracted to the extended positions.

Accordingly, it will be appreciated that there is disclosed aretractable step or step assist designed to be mounted to a vehicle. Thestep assist desirably includes a first support arm, a second support armand a step member. The step member desirably includes an upper steppingsurface defining a support plane, the first support arm and the secondsupport arm connected to the step member so that the first support armand the second support arm are pivotable with respect to the step memberabout a third axis and a fourth axis, respectively. The first supportarm and the second support arm allow the step member to move between aretracted position and a deployed position outward from the retractedposition.

In some embodiments, when the step member is in the deployed position,the arms and step member act to self-energize the step assist. In someembodiments, the step assist is not self-energized when in the retractedposition, but may be held in place by a biasing member or cam assembly.

In some embodiments, the step member is angled with respect to thehorizontal when in a retracted position. In some embodiments, the stepmember is angled downward in an outboard direction when the step assistis in a retracted position. In some embodiments, the outboard end of thestepping surface may be vertically spaced no more than approximately ½inch, no more than approximately 1 inch, no more than approximately 2inches, no more than approximately 3 inches, or no more thanapproximately 4 inches below the bottom edge of the vehicle bumper whenthe step assist is in a retracted position. In some embodiments, thebottom of the stepping member may be vertically spaced no more thanapproximately ½ inch, no more than approximately 1 inch, no more thanapproximately 2 inches, no more than approximately 3 inches, or no morethan approximately 4 inches below the bumper of the vehicle when in aretracted position. In some embodiments, the top of the stepping surfacemay be vertically spaced at least approximately ½ inch, at leastapproximately 1 inch, at least approximately 2 inches, at leastapproximately 3 inches, or at least approximately 4 inches below thebumper of the vehicle when in a deployed position. In some embodiments,the stepping member will extend no more than approximately 12 inches, nomore than approximately 8 inches, or no more than approximately 6 inchesbelow the bumper. In some embodiments, the arms of the step assistcontact each other when the step assist is in a deployed position. Insome embodiments, a biasing member serves to hold the step assist in aretracted position and upon movement of the step assist from theretracted position, the biasing member helps to deploy the step assist.

Unless otherwise stated, it is to be understood that any range of valuesdisclosed, taught or suggested herein comprises all values andsub-ranges therebetween. For example, a range from 1 to 100 willcomprise all integer and non-integer numerical values between 1 and 100;and all sub-ranges between 1 and 100 including all integer andnon-integer numerical values of the range limits and numberstherebetween.

From the foregoing description, it will be appreciated that a novelapproach for providing and using a retractable vehicle step assist withenhanced clearance features has been disclosed. While the components,techniques and aspects of the invention have been described with acertain degree of particularity, it is manifest that many changes may bemade in the specific designs, constructions and methodology herein abovedescribed without departing from the spirit and scope of thisdisclosure.

While a number of preferred embodiments of the invention and variationsthereof have been described in detail, other modifications and methodsof using, and other vehicular, automobile and/or mechanical applicationsfor the same will be apparent to those of skill in the art. Accordingly,it should be understood that various applications, modifications, andsubstitutions may be made of equivalents.

Various modifications and applications of the invention may occur tothose who are skilled in the art, without departing from the true spiritor scope of the invention. It should be understood that the invention isnot limited to the embodiments set forth herein for purposes ofexemplification.

1. A retractable vehicle step, comprising: a stepping member beingmoveable between a retracted position and an extended position; abiasing mechanism being operably coupled to said stepping member andconfigured to urge said stepping member toward said retracted positionand at least partially resist movement of the stepping member from saidextended position toward said retracted position; wherein said steppingmember is substantially laterally displaced by a predetermined distancewhen transitioning between said retracted position and said extendedposition.
 2. The vehicle step of claim 1, wherein said predetermineddistance is about 6.4 cm (2.5 inches).
 3. The vehicle step of claim 1,wherein said predetermined distance is in the range from about 5.1 cm (2inches) to about 7.6 cm (3 inches).
 4. The vehicle step of claim 1,wherein said predetermined distance is in the range from about 2.5 cm (1inch) to about 12.7 cm (5 inches).
 5. The vehicle step of claim 1,wherein said biasing mechanism comprises a biasing member.
 6. Thevehicle step of claim 5, wherein said biasing member comprises a spring.7. The vehicle step of claim 6, wherein said spring comprises acompression spring.
 8. The vehicle step of claim 6, wherein said springis substantially covered.
 9. The vehicle step of claim 1, wherein saidvehicle step is mountable to a vehicle utilizing an already existingconnection element of said vehicle.
 10. The vehicle step of claim 9,wherein said vehicle step is mountable to a rear portion of saidvehicle.
 11. The vehicle step of claim 1, wherein said stepping memberin said extended position provides spatial clearance relative to atailgate of a vehicle
 12. The vehicle step of claim 1, wherein saidbiasing mechanism comprises a gas spring.
 13. The vehicle step of claim12, wherein said gas spring is operable by a solenoid.
 14. The vehiclestep of claim 13, wherein said solenoid is actuated by an ignition of avehicle to move said stepping member from said extended position to saidretracted position.
 15. The vehicle step of claim 1, wherein saidvehicle step further comprises a lower mount which is substantiallyrigidly connected to the back of said stepping member, said lower mountcomprising a portion angled with respect to a lateral axis of said step.16. The vehicle step of claim 15, wherein said vehicle step furthercomprises at least one medial arm pivotally connected to said distalmount.
 17. The vehicle step of claim 16, wherein said biasing member isoperably coupled to said at least one medial arm.
 18. The vehicle stepof claim 16, wherein said at least one arm comprises a mechanical stopthat controls the maximum extension of said vehicle step.
 19. Thevehicle step of claim 1, wherein said biasing mechanism furthercomprises a moveable retaining surface and a cam surface such that insaid retracted position said cam surface contacts said retaining surfaceand urges said stepping member toward said retracted position.
 20. Thevehicle step of claim 19, wherein said biasing mechanism comprises asecond cam surface such that in said extended position said second camsurface contacts said retaining surface and urges said stepping membertoward said extended position.
 21. The vehicle step of claim 20, whereinsaid biasing mechanism comprises an intermediate surface between saidcam surfaces which facilitates transitioning between said retractedposition and said extended position.
 22. The vehicle step of claim 19,wherein said retaining surface is biased towards a rotation axis of saidbiasing mechanism.
 23. The vehicle step of claim 1, wherein the bottomof said stepping member is vertically spaced no than approximately 1inch below the bumper of the vehicle when in the retracted position. 24.The vehicle step of claim 1, wherein the bottom of said stepping memberis vertically spaced no than approximately 2 inches below the bumper ofthe vehicle when in the retracted position.
 25. The vehicle step ofclaim 1, wherein the bottom of said stepping member is vertically spacedno than approximately 3 inches below the bumper of the vehicle when inthe retracted position.